ME, MYSELF AND I
A time of great changes
The period of rapid physical and mental growth between childhood and adulthood is called adolescence. For girls, it is the period between 10 and 18; for boys, between 11 and 19. Adolescence extends from the start of puberty1 to complete sexual maturity. This stage has distinctive features in common for both sexes:
- accelerated physical growth and development of the reproductive organs;
- changes in the functioning of the neuro-endocrine system;
- frequent mood changes and emotional turbulence because of increased hormone production;
- development of moral reasoning.
WARM UP
• How would you deflne your adolescence? Tlck the appropriate boxes and try to explaln yourfeelings.
☐ A time for fun
☐ A time of conflict
☐ A period of stress
☐ A time of ups and downs
☐ A time of frustration
☐ A time of new experiences
☐ A struggle for independence
☐ Atime for self-exploration
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1 Puberty is the time in life when a boy or giri becomes sexually mature.
A time of problems
Adolescence is often a critical stage in life, when numerous problems may occur:
- Development of acne: a side-effect of the influx of sex hormones, acne develops in both sexes, mainly on the face, where it may increase self-consciousness and concern about body image.
- Anxiety and hypochondria: these are psychosomatic disorders which cause undue concern about health.
- Extreme fluctuation in social behaviour: social awkwardness, exhibitionism and aggressive self-assertion, as well as alternating periods of loneliness and gregariousness are frequent features.
- Eating patterns: some diet to control their weight, others tend to overeat.
- Inability to concentrate on things or enjoy them: this may lead to irritability, fatigue, insomnia and depression.
- Phobias: adolescents (and children) may experience specific phobias, such as intense, irrational fears of certain objects or situations.
- Substance addiction (drugs, alcohol or tobacco): the reasons for using these substances include the desire to feel independent, frustration, depression, peer-pressure or a false belief in increased physical, mental or intellectual performance.
From adolescence to adult life
The struggle to face and survive all these problems of adolescence is all part of preparing for adult life, and a formative period of both physical and psychological health. A healthy adolescence is essential for a healthy adulthood. During this period, adolescents gradually move out of the family, beginning to form a sense of self-identity in relation to the outer world, undergoing physiological and behavioural transformations and acquiring awareness.
